I keep thinking about examples of non-toxic masculinity: where men are manly without supporting the systemic or societal mistreatment of women, who feature strong women in their art or their personal lives, who don’t ooze an entitlement or regular obsession to be the dominant presence in a room.
And it’s so easy for me for make a list. I made this list in less than 30 minutes:
Harrison Ford.
Burt Reynolds movies. Watch White Lightning.
Idris Elba.
Scottish football fans.
Obama.
Springsteen.
Diego Luna.
Stef Curry.
Stephen Colbert.
James Garner.
Jason Momoa.
The lead characters in the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (and I suspect the actors that played them as well).
No, these men aren’t perfect. And none are 100% never-a-dick. Some cheated on wives and girlfriends. Some have ex-wives and girlfriends they were not always fair or respectful to. I’m sure most have broken hearts. But none would think Joe Rogan has good ideas. In looking at their body of work and public presentations, they’ve largely been good examples of a lot of aspects of non-toxic masculinity, which is, to me:
Exuding strength without bullying or dominance, characters that inspire respect instead of fear, showing courage without arrogance, all the while happily sharing and appreciating female perspectives and influences. Not expecting obedience from friends or partners. Not being afraid of showing emotions beyond anger or triumph. A desire to champion the underdog. Losing with grace (or at least trying to). Not needing a gun to look strong or cool.
Who would you add?
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